People who are addicted to drugs or alcohol develop their addictions over time.
People who are addicted to drugs or alcohol develop their addictions over time. Likewise, people need time to overcome them. Many people who’ve successfully achieved long-term sobriety lived in sober living environments after treatment. “Research indicates that most addicted individuals need at least three months in treatment to significantly reduce their drug use,” the National Institute on Drug Abuse says. “The best outcomes occur with longer durations of treatment.”
Generally, people with addictions benefit from phases of treatment. For example, a treatment plan starts with 90 days in an inpatient treatment center. Afterward, the patient may feel ready for independent living, notably if there’s generous support at home.
However, many patients aren’t ready to live a sober lifestyle on their own right after treatment. Sober living is especially important for continued success in recovery in these cases.
The Role of Sober Living Homes in Long-Term Recovery
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Recovery from drug addiction is a long-term process and frequently requires multiple episodes of treatment.” Researchers conducted another study in 2010 that supports this finding.
It says, “Average lengths of stay in both types of sober living houses surpassed the National Institute on Drug Abuse recommendation of at least 90 days to obtain maximum benefit.”
It goes on to show that sober living emphatically supported long-term sobriety after treatment. “Residents reduced or stopped their substance use between baseline and six-month follow-up and then maintained those improvements at 12 and 18 months.”
In addition to follow-up treatment, sober living homes offer invaluable peer support. Addiction often deprives the patient of a functioning, purposeful life with meaningful connections. Sober living environments are especially conducive to regaining necessary life skills. They also empower residents to create sober connections with others, establish personal accountability, and gain confidence in their sobriety.
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The Benefits of Recovery Homes
Lori Criss, Associate Director of the Ohio Council of Behavioral Health and Family Services Providers explains this to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in detail.
“Who we spend our time with, where we go, and the things we surround ourselves with all impact who we are and the decisions that we make. Many times, people in early recovery have to give up everything they’ve known.”
“[That’s] because those people, places, and things put them at risk for relapse or continued use,” Criss says. “Early recovery can be painful and isolating. Recovery housing can fill that void with a safe place, compassionate people, and a life full of purpose and fun that doesn’t involve alcohol or drugs.”
In other words, residents of sober living homes can safeguard their new sobriety in a reliable environment. Evidence has shown the significant role of these residences in prolonged recovery. Therefore, we’ve aligned our treatment center with a sober living home that’s committed to your safety, comfort, and sobriety.
We certainly understand that the transition into lifelong sobriety can seem intimidating at first. But, you’re not alone. Call us now at (910) 239-0377 to take the first step. Let us be your lifeline to a happier, healthier you!